Postcards And Palm Trees

Though demonstrating some impressive songwriting chops – particularly considering how young he is – I wasn’t necessarily expecting a life-changing live set and that’s pretty much how things played out. On the plus side, the live setting gave the material a welcome dose of organic-ness and spontaneity. While the record is far from overproduced, it does sound very precise, very studio-y. The slop of a live band was a welcome new dimension to the material.

On the negative side, the relative green-ness of the band was pretty evident. While granted, an audience that could generously be described as light doesn’t necessarily bring out one’s inner showman, there was a sort of nonchalance to their stage presence that didn’t really do the material justice. Also along those same lines, I really question the inclusion of two covers in the set – not because I’m against covers, obviously I love ’em – but the last thing the world needs are more Neil Young and Beatles covers, especially when the album you’re ostensibly promoting has a wealth of great material that should be showcased. Leave the bar band material to the bar bands.

In case it’s unclear, all criticisms are meant to be constructive – I really believe Gilbertson has got some serious talent, an opinion reinforced every time I listen to the record and further appreciate how strong the material is. I hope that next time they swing through town, the live performance has evolved to the point that it can do the songs proper justice.

It’s Sadies saturation this weekend – in addition to the Friday night at Lee’s/Saturday night at the ‘Shoe double-header, they’re now doing an in-store at Rotate This on Friday night at 6PM to go along with their Saturday afternoon in-store at Sonic Boom (which is now at 4:30PM, not 1PM as originally scheduled).

Nicole Atkins gives Spinner a video guided tour of Asbury Park and shows AOL Music around Charlotte, North Carolina and New York City. Did you see her on Letterman last night? Stunning. If/when I find a clip of it online, I shall post it. She’s at Lee’s Palace on November 18. Update: Head to Indieblogheaven to watch. Thanks!